Today is…

a good day to think about how we should act towards those who do not believe.

“Do I not hate those who hate You, O Lord? And do I not loathe those that rise up against You?”Psalm 139:21 NASB

Can any of us think of anyone who needs God more than those who do not believe in Him? Those of us whose love of the Lord is great instinctively want to stand up for God and defend Him. Perhaps our defense of Him may include hating the one who does not believe or – even worse – hates God. But is this an acceptable way to act towards individuals who desperately need God in their lives but just have not realized it yet?

If the action we take is to ignore or isolate these individuals then we are helping to spread the negative message that spills from their lips. If we do not act differently, we give them additional power to spread the wrong message. The last thing we want is for others to fall victim to thoughts and beliefs that will deprive them of the promise of the kingdom of God.

We do not have to put ourselves in physical danger or subject ourselves to any verbal abuse by confronting these individuals directly, but we do need to take positive steps that can help either change their hearts, or shield others from the venom of their disbelief.

The first way we help to affect change in the way others act is by setting an example in the manner in which we live our lives and conduct ourselves. A belief in God that is deeply rooted within us, will be evident in the friendly, outgoing, pleasant and helpful way in which we live. Perhaps we cannot influence them directly, but there is always someone whom they are trying to convince who just might sit up and take notice of a better way to live. Our faith can be worn with a smile and a helping hand that can be seen by all.

Another way to act towards those who need God the most is to use the power of our prayers for their benefit. Jesus says “But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you…” (Matthew 5:44 NASB).

A simple way to do this is to pray, “Father thank You for working in the hearts of those who hate. Please continue to soften them that they may one day accept Jesus Christ as their Savior and join those who have secured a place with You that will be filled with everlasting peace, joy, and love, Amen.”

That is how we should act towards those who do not believe, and today is a good day to start.

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